A collage of women’s running shoes Photograph: Paige Triola/The Guardian; Courtesy Photos View image in fullscreen A collage of women’s running shoes Photograph: Paige Triola/The Guardian; Courtesy Photos Guardian journalism is independent. We earn a commission if you buy something through an affiliate link. Learn more .
Over five months, I evaluated shoes from On, Nike, Adidas, Hoka and more to find out which belong on your next road or trail run
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Paige Triola Sun 23 Aug 2026 19.15 CEST Share Prefer the Guardian on Google Jump to The best women’s running shoes in 2026 Other running shoes we tested Why you should trust me How I tested women’s running shoes How to find the right pair of running shoes How to know when it’s time for new shoes How to know if a shoe fits correctly? What surfaces do you usually run on? If you are new to running, visit a running shoe store first Ultimately, comfort matters most F inding the right running shoes is overwhelming if you’re not sure what to look for. Footwear can make or break your run, and there are a sea of options – from sleek carbon-plated racers to aggressive rubber-lugged trail runners.
As a lifelong athlete whose running ranges from holiday-themed 5Ks to trail races in the mountains, I’ve learned that footwear is the most important part of a runner’s gear setup. I am constantly looking for the best pair of shoes to help each run feel enjoyable.
To help other women find their perfect footwear match, I tested 15 pairs of the most highly rated women’s running shoes on the market to see which stood out above the rest. I took notes on cushion and impact absorption, weight, fit, breathability and other qualities. After many miles (over a variety of surfaces), winners were chosen in several categories.
Whether you have worn the same pair for years and are ready for an upgrade, or you have never run at all, we are here to help you choose the best women’s running shoes in 2026.
Running shoe questions you may have (and our answers!)
Note: shoes are primarily for road running unless indicated. All specs are for women’s size 8.5.
Best for road running On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper Read more $220 Buy at On Best for beginners Asics Novablast 5 Read more $130 Buy at Zappos Affordable and comfy Adidas Adizero Evo SL Read more $98 $98-$150 at Adidas (almost sold out) For both roads and trails Scarpa Golden Gate LT Read more $149 Buy at Amazon The best cushioning Hoka Skyflow Read more $112 Buy at Hoka, originally $160 For daily training runs Saucony Women’s Endorphin Azura Read more $150 Buy at Zappos Pricey, but worth it for trails Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail Read more $260 Buy at Nike For treadmill running Brooks Glycerin 23 Read more $175 Buy at Zappos For long-distance trail running La Sportiva Prodigio Pro Read more $225 Buy at Amazon The best women’s running shoes in 2026 Best for road running: On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper On On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper from $220 $220 at On $220 at Dick’s Sporting Goods View image in fullscreen Photograph: Paige Triola/The Guardian $220 at On $220 at Dick’s Sporting Goods Why we love it
The On Cloudmonster 3 Hyper is what On calls its “super trainer,” a thickly cushioned model designed for daily training and tempo runs. This shoe was comfortable right out of the bo…